Priority Paperwork
Zero in on the documents you must secure within the first week to activate work and banking access.
Turn to page →Essential Documents Guide
Use this structured plan to establish your Australian identity across tax, banking, healthcare, and daily services. Follow the checklists and timelines to remain compliant from your first week onward.
Document planning overview
Secure the paperwork that unlocks healthcare, banking, and employment while staying compliant with visa conditions. Treat it like a project plan: set aside time during your first fortnight, note agency lead times, and prepare backups so you are not chasing signatures at the last minute.
Before you leave for Australia, assemble your identity documents, education records, and any translated certificates into one digital folder. Once you arrive, prioritise the items that unlock access to income, healthcare, and accommodation, and note the proof-of-address requirements for each application.
- Scan or photograph every passport, visa grant notice, and ID card before handing them over for verification.
- Track processing windows in a shared calendar so you can follow up if confirmation emails do not arrive.
- Create a secure cloud folder for receipts and reference numbers in case you need to prove status during the first 90 days.
Once the core documents are in place, review them quarterly: keep your address current with every authority, store updated tax or superannuation statements, and archive expired IDs separately so they never get confused with active credentials.
Step-by-Step Timeline
Work through a chronological plan that keeps applications and appointments in sync.
Turn to page →
Pro Tips & Warnings
Protect your identity, avoid scams, and keep every confirmation within reach.
Turn to page →Essential documents to secure first
Complete these applications in order of urgency. Each success opens access to the next service or support.
Tax File Number (TFN)
Apply immediately upon arrival to activate work rights and keep your income taxed correctly.
Key Details:
• Apply online via ATO or visit an office
• Have your passport, visa grant letter, and Australian address ready
• Processing takes 7–14 days and costs nothing
• Store your TFN securely and only share it with employers or banks
Australian Bank Account
Open an account within six weeks for simplified identity checks and seamless salary deposits.
Key Details:
• Visit a branch or start online with major banks
• Bring passport, visa papers, and a small initial deposit
• Same-day activation for everyday accounts
• Compare newcomer packages to avoid monthly fees
Medicare Card
Access subsidised healthcare as soon as you’re eligible by registering in person or online.
Key Details:
• Permanent residents and some temporary visas qualify
• Provide passport, visa evidence, and proof of address
• Receive a receipt to use immediately while the card is mailed
• Registration is completely free
Driver’s Licence Conversion
Swap your overseas licence within the first few months to meet state driving rules.
Key Details:
• International licences usually valid for 3 months
• Book with your state transport authority
• Bring overseas licence, passport, and address documents
• Fees vary ($50–$200) and temp licences print same day
Superannuation Account
Set up retirement savings before your first payslip so contributions flow to the fund you choose.
Key Details:
• Employers contribute 11.5% of salary to super
• Nominate your own fund or accept the employer default
• Provide TFN and identification to avoid higher tax
• Most funds activate within five business days
Mobile Plan & Connectivity
Stay reachable with prepaid or postpaid services once you have proof of address ready.
Key Details:
• Sign up online or in store with major telcos
• Provide identification and address (credit check for postpaid)
• Prepaid plans activate immediately and build local history
• Monthly costs range from $15 to $100 depending on data
Step-by-step application timeline
Tick off each milestone in sequence to keep documents arriving without delays.
Days 1–3 • Tax File Number
Apply online with the ATO as soon as you land and keep the confirmation email for employers.
Days 3–7 • Bank Account
Use your TFN receipt to open an account and set up online banking plus debit cards.
Week 1–2 • Medicare Registration
Take identity documents to a service centre. The interim receipt lets you claim immediately.
Week 2–4 • Driver’s Licence
Check your state rules, sit any required tests, and convert before overseas rights expire.
Before First Pay • Superannuation
Nominate a super fund and hand the details to your employer to start contributions.
âś… Your document checklist
Track progress across every critical registration and keep proof handy for employers.
⚠️ Critical warnings
Visa compliance: Work strictly within your visa conditions to avoid future application issues.
Document security: Never share identity documents on social media or unsecured messaging apps.
Scam protection: Government services are free. Anyone asking for TFN or Medicare fees is a scammer.
Address updates: Notify banks, Medicare, and Home Affairs whenever you move to prevent penalties.